FRIENDSWOOD, TX (OCTOBER 14, 2014) – For the 13th year, Dawn Johnson and her family will host a Monster Dash/Fun Run 5K to raise money for the Foundation for Ichthyosis & Related Skin Types, Inc. (FIRST). Dawn and her incredible army of friends, neighbors, and family members continue to work tirelessly to create this year’s event, taking place on Saturday, October 25, 2014 at Friendswood High School, 702 Greenbriar.

Dawn’s daughter Jordan is affected with epidermolytic ichthyosis. Ichthyosis is a family of rare, genetic skin disorders that causes the skin to become scaly, and crack and peel. Ichthyosis also prevents the skin from sweating, which can lead to complications from overheating. FIRST is the only national foundation in the United States dedicated to those affected with ichthyosis.

“There is no known cure for ichthyosis, only treatments,” said Jean Pickford, Executive Director of FIRST. “It is our hope that with the funds raised from the Monster Dash, we can provide services to the members of FIRST and continue to conduct more extensive research, taking us one step closer to finding a cure and better management of the disorder. We can’t thank the Johnson family enough for their efforts and continued support.”

About the Foundation for Ichthyosis & Related Skin Types, Inc.®The Foundation for Ichthyosis & Related Skin Types, Inc.® (FIRST) is the only nonprofit foundation in the United States dedicated to families affected by the rare skin disorder ichthyosis. FIRST educates, inspires, and connects those touched by ichthyosis and related disorders through emotional support, information, advocacy and has supported more than $1.4 million in research funding for better treatments and eventual cures.